CINNAMON

The COST Action CINNAMON Connecting an INternational Network of Academic Manufacturers of ONcoimmunotherapies has launched.

CAR-T cell therapy represents a breakthrough in cancer treatment but faces challenges in accessibility, standardisation, and expertise across Europe. Improvement of health outcomes and addressing inequalities in advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are major European challenges according to the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Currently, CAR-T manufacturing, regulatory, research and clinical capabilities are unevenly distributed, particularly in Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITCs). The urgency stems from the growing demand for cutting-edge therapies.

The main aim of CINNAMON, chaired by IDIBAPS and vice chaired by EATRIS, is to establish a collaborative network of European centres to standardise, expand and optimise CAR-T cell therapy expertise. This involves promoting equitable access to these therapies, fostering innovation in ATMPs, and providing comprehensive training programs for scientists, innovators and clinicians, particularly in (but not limited to) ITCs. CINNAMON will assemble a multidisciplinary team that will bridge gaps in knowledge and technology, thereby improving the overall quality and reach of CAR-T cell therapies.

30 institutions in over 22 countries.